Valley Christian Magazine June 2013

June 2013

Building 429 The Day My Fragile Identity as a Mom Melted p14

June 17th Pharr Events Center Tickets at Viva Life//Faith Bookstore

Messy Church p32

Struggle Between our Heads & Our Hearts p16

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index

14

Features

Lysa Terkeurst

Music Spotlight Building429

32 Kids Talk About God 27 Valley Christian Weddings & Engagement 28 Forgiven Motorcycle Ministry 30 FCA - RGV 32 New Books 34 Events 36 Music Spotlight: Building 429

36

32

National Columnists 10 14 18 38

James MacDonald Lysa Terkeurst Greg Laurie Dave Ramsey

Valley Contributors 8 12 16 22 24 32

On The Cover

Building 429 June 17th Pharr Events Center

Christian Torres Nick Dombrowski Andrew Hollinger Jerrel Jobe Theresa Valladares Miguel Paredes

38

Dave Ramsey

Vol. 3 / Issue 3

Christian Torres Publisher

Christian@valleychristianmagazine.com

Stephanie Torres Accounting

stephanie@valleychristianmagazine.com

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James Alexander Distribution

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Little-While Faith

By Christian Torres

Here’s a question I’ve been asked before: “If I’m doing what God wants me to be doing, I shouldn’t have any problems and things should fall into place, right?

So I ask them...” why do you ask...?”

“Well because things are getting difficult. I’m running into opposition and people are telling me that I’m probably not doing what God wants me to be doing...so I should stop & give up.”

Hmmmm, I definitely believe that God closes doors when He wants to...but what about when He has you right where you’re supposed to be and the difficulties are there for a reason?

After the feeding of the five thousand, “Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side...” Matthew 14:22 niv “Meanwhile, the boat was far out to sea when the wind came up against them and they were battered by the waves.” Matthew 22:24 msg.

Did you catch that, Jesus made them get out onto the boat...he didn’t suggest and gave them a choice...

He made them. I’d say they were pretty much right where God wanted them to be. Storm. Waves hitting them. Scared. Struggling. Opposition. ...right where He wanted them to be.

Did they do anything wrong? No! They had just gotten back from serving

people and just helped with the feeding the crowds.

It was at the time when they were struggling when God appeared to them while walking on water. (isn’t it amazing when God shows up in places and in ways you’d least expect.) Peter then called out to Jesus not to save them but “Lord, if it’s you, tell me to come to you on the water.”Matthew 14:28 niv Peter didn’t ask to be saved from his troubles, but to get closer to God. His faith and focus on God allowed him to walk on the water...right up until the point he took his eyes off Jesus and started allowing the distractions and fear to take priority...and then he sank.

Gulp.

People will disappoint us. Things will go wrong. If you are doing something for God...expect opposition. But here’s the question...how will you respond?

Will you focus on the nay-sayers, the struggles, the issues at work, problems....don’t.

Don’t give up. Seek God. It sounds easy but it’s not.

Jesus told Peter “you of little faith.” I really think his faith wasn’t little but that it only lasted for a little time.

Seriously, He walked on water but then quickly lost his focus. He had the faith to get out of the boat in a storm...its just that he only had it for a little time.

I encourage you to have great faith (or even faith the size of a mustard seed) but don’t only have it for a little while. Stay the course. Don’t give up. Pray to God asking him to draw you closer. Don’t be of a little-while faith! Persevere!

Christian Torres

is a graduate of Baylor University. He and his wife, Stephanie, have 3 daughters: Madeleine (13), Natalie (10) and Courtney (8). They live in McAllen and are members of Palm Valley Church of Mission. / 8 /www.valleychristianmagazine.com /

Prioritize the Word of Truth

by James MacDonald

I love this: “accurately handling the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). When I was a kid, I memorized this verse in the King James Version as “rightly dividing the word of truth.” Actually, in the original Greek there’s just one word. It’s a compound word that means cut it straight. Don’t you love that picture? We are supposed to be cutting it straight, rightly dividing, accurately handling the Word of Truth.

We need to cut it straight in our families. When your daughter wants to date an unbeliever—but the Word of Truth says in 2 Corinthians 6:14, “Do not be bound together with unbelievers”—you go to her and cut it straight. When your son wants to listen to ungodly music in your house—but the Word of Truth says in Philippians 4:8, “Whatever is pure, whatever is lovely . . . dwell on these things”—go to him and cut it straight.

Maybe you’re thinking, Hey, to be honest with you, my marriage is not doing very well right now. It’s more work than wow, for sure! I have to be honest and tell you that some days, in my darkest moments, I wonder if I can make it. I’m just not sure I can stick it out for the rest of my life. But the Word of Truth says in Matthew 19:6,

“What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate.” So put that thinking out of your mind, and cut it straight.

Maybe you’ve been having a hard time at work, and the finances aren’t what they used to be. This hasn’t been a good year; sales are down, and you’ve been tempted to cut some corners. Maybe you’ve thought about withholding your giving to your church because you think, God, I have to provide for my family and cover certain obligations. You’ve been tempted to compromise the Word of Truth. But then you remember Matthew 6:33, “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” No longer will you allow yourself the luxury of wandering from what the Word of God says. You are “cutting it straight”; you are accurately handling the Word of Truth. And you are making the Word of God a priority.

A number of years ago, we had some major rainstorms in our area. Many people had their basements completely flooded. The morning after the storm, two sweet sisters who live next door to us came by and said, “We were calling you on the phone in the middle of the night. We wanted to make sure your basement didn’t flood.”

“Well, we only have cordless phones,” I said.

“When the power went out, our phones didn’t ring.”

“Only a couple of cordless phones for a family your size?” the sisters answered. “We have six phones in our house: three cordless phones, and three regular phones.”

I couldn’t believe it. “Wow, you have six phones? For what?” They answered, “Well, we work for the phone company. What do you expect? Isn’t your house full of Bibles?”

Listen Walk in the Word locally to

weekdays at 5:30a.m.

James MacDonald is founding and Senior Pastor at Harvest Bible Chapel in northwest Chicago. James’ teachings can be heard on Walk in the Word, a daily radio program reaching more than 3 million people across North America.

Used by permission of Walk in the Word, Elgin, Ill., 61023. www.walkintheword.com

I laughed out loud, “Well, yes, as a matter of fact, it is!” I walked away smiling to myself, because that’s what I want our family and our church family to be known for—full of the truth of God’s Word.

That’s almost a decade ago now. Thankfully, those sisters gave their lives to Christ—in fact I saw them in church last weekend.

by permission of Walk in the Word,Elgin, Ill., 61023.

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The Gospel Mirage W

by Nick Dombrowski

orking on the university campus, I get to talk with our futures best and brightest who study knowledge, seek truth, and ponder a myriad of ideas. But, sadly, this is what I find: college students, both Christian and non, do not know the gospel (the foundation of all knowledge, the truth that governs all other truth, and the most profound set of ideas).

Let me explain.

I regularly find myself engaged in conversations with students and eventually I’ll ask if they are a Christian. Even if they respond, “yes”, I normally share the gospel and 9 times out of 10 they say, “I’ve never heard that before”. Again, I’m even talking about self-proclaiming “Christian” students.

What effects does this have? Well, first of all, I’m not sure if

they are Christians. I’m not saying they aren’t, but I’m also not saying they are.

We try and sum up the gospel in five points: • Relationship—we were created to be in a loving relationship with God and other people here on earth.

• Rebellion—we are evil and wicked people who have rebelled against God and are enemies against him.

• Judgment—because of our rebellion, God is going to judge us by pouring out his wrath in eternal condemnation.

• Gospel—through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, those who follow him are saved from God’s judgment and are given a new life, new family, new purpose, and the hope of a new home.

• Return—one day Jesus will return to judge those who do not follow him (putting an end to all evil) and for those who do follow, he will take them to a new eternal home.

Students are most shocked and confused by the rebellion and judgment portions of the gospel. They’ve never thought of themselves as wicked or as enemies of God and never knew that God was going to pour out his wrath upon them.

They believe Jesus “saves” them, but when asked, “Saves you from what?” they give a confused, deer-in-headlights sort of look. They generally respond with a, “Jesus loves everyone, but you can believe whatever you want and I’m not going to push my beliefs on you. You can live your life however you want and everyone will go to heaven (some really nice place with clouds, angels, and harps) except for very, very bad people like Hitler” type of answer.

This is what I call “the gospel mirage”. Have you ever seen one of those movies where some guy, stranded in the middle of the desert, sees some indescribable oasis in the near distance? He tries to get there, groping for water, but just when in reach it vanishes. It isn’t real. It’s not there. That’s what’s happening with these students. Their gospel isn’t real. It’s not there. It is a mirage.

Nick & Chelsea Dombrowski InterVarsity Christian Fellowship

So, returning to the question, what effects will this have?

1.

We may have a large part of a generation that think they are Christians when they are not.

2.

The world gets a very wrong perception of Jesus and the gospel as this generation lives a mirage of a Christian life and proclaims (if they even choose to) a “mirage gospel”.

3.

We are unable to fulfill the great commission because we don’t even have disciples let alone disciples who know how to share the true gospel to make disciples.

These are massive effects. No way around it.

Let me offer 3 responses: First, pray. Beg the Father that these upcoming generations would seek, know, and respond to the true gospel and the true God. Second, know the gospel, live the gospel, and share the gospel yourself. Whether you’re part of this generation or another, lead the way by living a life marked by confession, repentance, fruits of the Spirit, and power and teach others to do the same.

Lastly, pastors and churches, preach the entire gospel without avoiding hard truths of Scripture to cater to the crowds, but also help your body to respond well to these truths. Also, create spaces to train your people in sharing the gospel. This will help them to clarify misunderstandings, internalize its truths more deeply, and share it with others.

Nick Dombrowski graduated from Western Michigan University and leads campus staff for InterVarsity Christian Fellowship here in the Rio Grande Valley. Chapters are located at both UTPA and STC. He is married to Come. Let’s make disciples.

Chelsea and live in Edinburg. / 12 /www.valleychristianmagazine.com /

S

he had the most angelic sweetheart lips. And eyes blue as the most inviting of oceans.

Blonde ringlet curls. Chubby cheeks begging to be kissed over and over and over.

Little hands that instinctively curled around my finger while simultaneously melting my heart.

Pure sweetness wrapped in a pink blanket.

And then came the day this little creature pursed those lips, gripped the toy in her hand, tilted her blonde ringlet pigtailed head and screamed, “Mine! Mine! Mine!”

It was a small red toy my friend let her borrow.

My friend who was much more organized than me. She had brought along toys and baggies of cheerios to keep the kids entertained during our coffee date. The plan to use this toy as temporary entertainment had worked beautifully. Until it was time to go.

I could feel a burning flush of embarrassment rush from my chest to my face.

Of course my friend’s child was shining her halo with one hand while happily handing over her yellow toy with the other.

The Day My Fragile Identity As A Mom Melted

By Lysa Terkeurst

Lysa TerKeurst is a New York Times best selling author and speaker who helps everyday women live an adventure of faith through following Jesus Christ. As president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, Lysa has lead thousands over the past 15 years to help make their walk with God an invigorating journey. In the midst of her ministry, though, Lysa is a real, everyday woman who simply seeks to glorify God through her life and family.

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Awesome.

“Mine! Mine!” My daughter screamed as every eye in the small java joint stared at me.

I pried the toy from her hand, thanked my friend, and hoisted my kicking and screaming daughter out of the wooden highchair. And then in slow motion I watched in horror as she knocked my paper coffee cup from my hand and sent it careening across the floor.

VALLEY CARE CLINICS

welcomes

DR. DANIEL C. LEE, OB/GYN “It’s by the grace of God that I’m able

I felt my fragile identity as a mom melt into the puddle of spilled coffee. What happened to my angel? My beautiful, beautiful daughter was…. not so angelic.

to be a part of my patients’ lives, whether it’s watching the miracle of a baby developing or helping a woman

It’s been many years since that day in the coffee shop.

through menopausal symptoms.”

But oh how I wish I could go back and sit with my little inexperienced mommy self on the drive home that day.

I would say, “Your daughter is a child in need of a parent.

She needs to be taught. And some of your best teaching opportunities will come when she puts her sin nature on display. Don’t fear or fret or feel like this is some sort of failure on your part. Her outside demonstrations are an internal indication of her need for guidance. So guide her. Love her.

And always remember to be the parent. Not her friend. Not her buddy. The parent.”

That daughter is 19 years old now. And is an absolute delight.

Dr. Daniel C. Lee is excited to be back in the Rio Grande Valley, providing exceptional care in women’s health. After completing a Family Practice residency at In His Image in 2004, Dr. Lee completed a second residency in OB/GYN at Oklahoma State University. At his new office in McAllen, Dr. Lee provides a full range of obstetric care, and has special expertise in minimally invasive gynecological surgery.

But growing her up wasn’t always easy. There were many more times when she put her sin nature on display. And each time I had to choose to be the parent.

It’s not easy to be the parent. It seems less and less popular to tell kids no.

As parents, we need to set boundaries. Teach our kids the difference between realistic and unrealistic expectations.

Not cater to their every whim. Draw lines between what’s appropriate and inappropriate for language, entertainment, and the length of our hem line. Model manners. And what it looks like to seek a life of godliness, not just religious activity.

Glory knows I’ve been so imperfect with all this.

But holding the line on being the parent, even when done imperfectly, is good.

And will be worth it.

Even in those seasons where you feel as if they’re doing everything the opposite of what you’ve taught them. All that parenting is in them. And the fruit of that will emerge one day.

To make an appointment, call 855-VCC-APPT (855-822-2778) NEW MCALLEN OFFICE: 1309 East Nolana, Suite C McAllen, TX CLINIC HOURS: Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcomed.

Be the parent.

That’s what our kids need so desperately.

And be encouraged my sweet friend… you’re doing better than you think you are.

OB/GYN www.valleycareclinics.com/vcm

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The Struggle Between our Heads and Our Hearts

by Andrew Hollinger

W

riters must be expert raconteurs and amateur everything else. I found this particularly true last year: I wrote a novel to fulfill the requirements of my MFA. The story is about Harvey, a middle-aged, terminally ill man who feels intense and near-paralyzing guilt about an event in his past. Or at least I thought he felt guilty.

I had to learn about guilt, the deep, oppressive, life-changing kind. Studying guilt led me to learn about wrongness and regret, shame and vulnerability. And then I understood that Harvey didn’t feel guilty. He was ashamed.

At the end of the book, when the reader discovers the nature of Harvey’s wrongdoing, the reader gets to decide whether Harvey was too hard on himself or his self-torture was justified. That’s one of those gambits that make a book “literary.” Beyond that, though, it was important for me to write Harvey this way, as a Christian struggling with shame, because I think that’s very real.

Becoming a Christian and learning about God’s love and forgiveness is a life-changing moment. Then that all-too-human side pops up again, though, reminding us that we’re not good enough.

Brené Brown, a researcher at the University of Houston So we go to Sunday school and Bible study and say that specializing in vulnerability and shame, says that guilt is a God’s forgiveness is available if we just take it (“If we healthy response to having done something wrong. Guilt confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our drives us to apologize, to make amends; it helps us learn sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John from our mistakes and misdeeds.

1:19). Then we come home and Otherwise, that nagging feeling secretly think Well, for everyFeeling guilty when we do something hurtful, then, is part of be- that we’re not good enough, will body else. Not me. I’m actually ing a mentally and emotionally too wrong. God is “just,” and healthy person. Here’s the thing: never be good enough gets louder so I’ll wait for my “just” desserts. guilt is fleeting. Even though we and more insistent, until its all we It’s the struggle between our may remember the incident for can hear. And then we believe it. heads and our hearts. The Bisome time, perhaps with twinges ble tells us that “all have sinned of regret, if we have made amends, the guilt fades. and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23) and Although Harvey did feel driven, constantly driven, to make up for his past wrong, his feelings of guilt seeped into his life, so much so that nearly everything he did was informed by this one wrong. (I’m not explaining what Harvey’s perceived misdeed was because, in the book, the reader doesn’t find out until the last chapter — it’s not important what Harvey’s wrong was, only that he continually suffers from having done it.) That’s shame.

Shame is that nagging doubt that we’re not good enough and never will be good enough. It forces us to live and relive, like some horrible edition of This Is Your Life, every rotten moment we’ve ever had. For Harvey, this meant that no matter how awesome he was, how many good deeds he did, or the joy he may have brought other people, he wasn’t able to overcome his wrong. In fact, for Harvey, his shame was how he knew he was paying for his misdeed.

As long as he felt bad about it, he felt justice was being served. It’s a kind of addiction (atonement addiction?).

that God “will have compassion on us; [He] will tread our sins underfoot and hurl our iniquities into the depths of the sea” (Micah 7:19). The heart wants to believe and the head asks but how?

Is it OK to talk about our struggles as Christians? We talk about temptations. We talk about being lukewarm. We talk about our moments of doubt. Can we talk about our shame? I think we have to. Otherwise, that nagging feeling that we’re not good enough, will never be good enough gets louder and more insistent, until its all we can hear. And then we believe it.

But there’s more. In the story, Harvey is a Christian. He believes, at least academically, that God forgives him (or would, if he would ask for it). Harvey’s emotions get in the way, those feelings of yes, God forgives, but certainly not for this; I mean this was absolutely awful. / 16 /www.valleychristianmagazine.com /

Andrew Hollinger Andrew Hollinger is a husband and a father, a writer and a teacher. He spends his time teaching at UTPA, writing (although it sometimes looks like staring into space), and tag-teaming with his wife, Wendy, to keep up with their 3-year old, Peter. He attends Palm Valley Church in Mission, TX. He writes, here, in the tradition of Don Miller: just a person continually interested in what it means to know God and to be a Christian.

He can be reached for question or comment at andrewhollinger@aol.com.

1400 E. Ridge RD., STE 10 MCALLEN, TX 78503 WWW.PENAEYE.COM

in the d l i h c up a o: “Train he should g e will ld, h way he is oom it.” n e h and w depart fr not ) 6 (KJV : 2 2

s b Prover

The mission of First Christian Academy is to promote a redemptive relationship between each student and Jesus Christ and facilitate spiritual, academic, social , physical and vocational growth through the provision of an environment in which non-denominational Biblebased Christian values are inspired.

Here at FCA we take pride in our familyoriented, positive, loving environment.

We pray that the Lord will guide us in living up to our motto everyday;

“Teaching Christian Morals, Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders.”

For Just Such a Time

By Greg Laurie

I love the story of Esther because in some ways, it reminds me of a fairy tale, except it is true. Esther was a beautiful Jewish girl who was plucked from obscurity, won a beauty contest, and became the queen of the kingdom. Then there was a wicked man named Haman, who hatched a plot to have all of the Jews put to death. It was Esther’s uncle, Mordecai, who came to her and described the plight of her fellow Jews, saying, “For if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father’s house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14).

Esther was the queen who saved a nation. She used her influence with the king, the plot was averted, and the people were saved. Then, in perfect poetic justice, Haman, the guy who hatched the plot, ended up hanging on the very gallows he had erected for others. She was there behind the scenes. Esther could have said, “I don’t want to jeopardize my position.

No one will ever find out I am a Jew. I am going to be careful and play it safe.” But instead, she put everything on the line.

Greg Laurie

is Senior Pastor of Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, Calif. He began his pastoral ministry at 19 by leading a Bible study of 30 people. Since then, God has transformed the small group into a church of 15,000 plus, one of the largest churches in America.

For more, visit www.greglaurie.com.

Used by permission from Harvest Ministries with Greg Laurie, PO Box 4000 Riverside, CA 92514

pletely “For if you remain com f and silent at this time, relie r the deliverance will arise fo e, but Jews from another plac use you and your father’s ho s will perish. Yet who know to the whether you have come e as kingdom for such a tim this?” - (Esther 4:14)

Who knows that God has not put you where you are right now for such a time as this? You may be the only Christian in your family or the only believer in your neighborhood. You may be the only follower of Jesus Christ in your workplace or in your classroom. Like Esther, will you stand up for such a time as this?

Will you use your influence where you can, when you can?

Copyright © 2013 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved.

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Train with

Reign

Angela Greenig to

Centro Familiar Christiano 3308 N. Conway, Mission, TX The General is coming to rally the troops August 9th, 2013 Friday Night at 7p.m.

August 10th 10a.m.-12p.m.

12p.m.-2p.m. Lunch 2p.m.-4p.m.

7p.m. www.angelagreenig.com The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is proclaimed to the poor.

Matthew 11:5

Pamela Neelry 956-453-3007

Valley Child Wins Colorado Dude Ranch Family Vacation Worth More than $10,000

Colton Hughes, 11, winner of the RGV Children’s International Arts Festival looked in amazement at Yoli Cantu’s stained-glass rendering of his winning art. Stained-glass artist Yoli Cantu awarded Hughes two scholarships in creating either mosaic or fused glass.

To view Colton’s winning art and writing and to obtain festival questions and guidelines for next school year, please visit www.KidsTalkAboutGod.org/rgv.

T

wenty Valley children and their families gathered Friday night at the Art Village on Main in McAllen, each hoping to win a week-long vacation for their family at the Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch in Parshall, Colorado. As RGV Children’s Arts Festival chairman Carey Kinsolving handed pediatrician Dr. Martin Garza the envelope to announce the winner, the 20 finalists waited in anticipation to hear their names called.

“The winner of the 2013 RGV Children’s Arts Festival is Colton Hughes!” said Garza.

Hughes, 11, answered and illustrated two of the five arts festival questions that were published in an online book entitled “Rio Grande Valley Kids Talk About Heaven” at www.KidsTalkAboutGod.org/rgv. “Colton’s artwork and writing on the question ‘How do you get to heaven?’ generated a lot of votes from our 17 community-leader judges,” said Carey Kinsolving, chairman of the RGV Children’s Arts Festival.

Colton drew a picture depicting five children with thought bubbles above their heads that indicated what they were thinking about the way to heaven.

Artist Yoli Cantu of McAllen Stained Glass unveiled a stained-glass rendering of Hughes’ art that she created to commemorate his victory and to award to him.

Hughes also won two scholarships from Cantu for a week-long summer workshop in either mosaic glass or fused glass.

If Colton’s original art and Cantu’s stained-glass rendering of the way to heaven weren’t clear enough, his writing left no doubts: “All you have to do is believe in Jesus Christ and that he died on the cross to pay for your sins. Some people think you can go to heaven by going to church, giving money or doing good works, but that is wrong. All we have to do is believe. God gave us eternal life in heaven as a free gift. This means we do not need to earn it because it is free.”

In addition to winning a Bar Lazy J dude ranch vacation for his parents (Will and Nancy Hughes of Harlingen) and two siblings, Colton Hughes received a check for $1,000 to help pay for travel to Colorado. “Since 2008, our partner dude ranch owners have awarded 19 dude ranch vacations to children outside the Val-

Colton Hughes, 11, a home schooler from Harlingen, won the RGV Children’s Arts Festival with insightful art and writing. In this piece of art, he depicted five children thinking about the way to heaven. Two of them are trusting in Jesus Christ as their savior while the other three are trusting in good works, other gods and going to church and giving money. Hughes wrote: “God gave us eternal life in heaven as a free gift. All you have to do is believe in Jesus Christ and that he died on the cross to pay for your sins.”

ley, but until now we’ve never had a winner from the Valley,” said Kinsolving.

Second place winner Jordan Brewer from Harlingen, and third place winner Angela Martinez from Pharr each won $1,000 worth of horseback riding lessons at JHK Equestrian Country Club Horsemanship Academy in Edinburg. All 20 finalists received passes for up to four people to enjoy a Dolphin Watch or Eco Tour cruise courtesy of Breakaway Cruises at South Padre Island.

Gold spur sponsors include pediatrician Dr. Martin Garza, Children’s Center at Renaissance, orthodontist Dr. Joel Martinez, Lone Star National Bank, JHK Equestrian Country Club Horsemanship Academy and Melba’s Dance School. Kinsolving already has a commitment from the Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch owners to award another dude ranch vacation next year. Children ages 5-12 who live or attend school in the Valley can find five new heaven questions to answer and illustrate at KidsTalkAboutGod.org/rgv.

Those interested in receiving a sponsorship package may send an email to carey@KidsTalkAboutGod.org or call 956-772-1920.

Twenty Valley children were selected as finalists in the RGV Children’s Arts Festival. Colton Hughes, 11, won the RGV Children’s International Arts Festival. His writing and drawing were published in the “Rio Grande Valley Kids Talk About Heaven” online book. His prizes include a week-long vacation for him, his parents and two siblings in the Colorado Rocky Mountains at the Bar Lazy J Guest Ranch, $1,000 to help pay for travel expenses and two scholarships from McAllen Stained Glass to learn how to create mosaic or fused glass. To view Colton’s work, 181 Valley writers and artists and to obtain next year’s festival questions, go to www.KidsTalkAboutGod.org/rgv.

Carey Kinsolving’s Kids Talk About God syndicated column is distributed by Creators Syndicate. KidsTalkAboutGod.org features a Bible-lesson archive of all columns. Kinsolving is the co-founder of the RGV Children’s International Arts Festival. For details, go to www.KidsTalkAboutGod.org

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coming soon

Courtyard Praise @ 12th & Austin Ave A new monthly series of concerts of Contemporary Christian Music

If you are a local band or singer and would like to participate, send us your contact information along with an audition CD/DVD to:

Robert K Ordway 3009 Heron Ave McAllen, TX 78504 956.463.4911

or email to: rkordway@hotmail.com

First Presbyterian Church Downtown McAllen Location at 12th & Austin Ave.

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Pray Until You Pray I

by Jerrel Jobe

’m amazed at how easily I can become distracted when I set out to pray. Suddenly, everything that needs to be done flashes before my mind. “One of the difficulties that I find when I pray,” writes Henry Nouwen, “is when I go off to pray, the thoughts jump around in my mind like monkeys on a banana tree.” I imagine we’ve all had similar experiences, where our thoughts seem to jump around from one thing to another.

There have been times when I was praying and I noticed that while I was praying, I had been thinking about something else. At some point, my talking to God drifted into talking to myself. An entire conversation emerged in my head and I was unaware. This is a sobering reality. Even more so, is that this may have actually happened on many other occasions, only I never realized it. I wonder, if during these times, when I say “Amen,” God says, “Oh, were you talking to me?”

The Puritan Christians of the 17th Century had a saying, “Pray until you pray.” They recognized that one could “pray,” but not actually be “praying.” They taught that we can be talking to God with our mouths, yet our minds and hearts are somewhere else. The Old Testament prophet Isaiah offered essentially the same lament when he declared, “these people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Isaiah 29:13). An element of pray until you pray, means that you develop the discipline to withstand the plethora of distractions that constantly endeavor to hijack your life of prayer.

The following are a few practices that I have found helpful in overcoming my tendencies to be distracted and develop a more singular focus in prayer.

Vocalize Prayers Certainly, we don’t have to pray out loud in order for God to hear us, however, I’ve found that it is helpful for me to hear myself. As mentioned earlier, our minds can wander during prayer. These mental ramblings can easily go undetected, but when spoken, they become quite apparent. We are less apt to mentally drift off subject if we are saying out loud that which we are praying.

Vocalizing my prayers also seems to attach more passion and emotion. For example, if I’m distraught about something, when I vocalize that to God, my intonation and inflection of vocal variety tends to follow accordingly. As the prayer is spoken, there’s a deep connection with how I’ve actually been affected by the realities of that which I am now bringing before God.

I’m currently doing an in-depth study of the prayers that the Apostle Paul prayed in the New Testament. I’m digging into what he prayed. Then, I’m memorizing and rewriting these prayers, making them personal and praying them daily. Praying through a passage or verse is a powerful way to stay constant in prayer, not to mention a solid safe guard against the all too typical consumerist-god-give-me-more type of prayers.

Memorizing Scripture Another significant practice has been the discipline of memorizing Scripture. Frequently, in my times of reading and reflecting on Scripture, God will bring a particular verse or passage to my attention. A verse that God uses to speak directly into my life in the here and now. Sometimes these are verses of encouragement, while at other times; they are words of correction and redirection. Often, I write these verses down, commit them to memory and reflect on them as I go about my day.

Memorizing anything can be challenging. It requires discipline.

For me, this means writing the verse down and saying it to myself over and over again, until I can repeat it without any written aid. I’ve discovered that the more I do this, the easier it gets and the less time it takes my mind to memorize a verse.

The concentration that is required to memorize a verse has transferred to my times of prayer. Just as my mind has become trained to stay focused on a verse for the purpose of memorization, more and more, it has developed the ability to also stay focused during prayer. These verses have also served as starting points and content for many prayers.

Writing Prayers Writing out my prayers causes my mind to slow down to the speed of my hand. It’s one thing to tell God about a situation, but I’ve found when I write out my prayers, I become postured to hear what God wants to tell me about that situation. Otherwise, my mind races on to the next item of prayer, without ever gaining God’s perspective on the matter. These written prayers also serve as a great record of our journey with God. Drawing Prayers I’m not an artist, but sometimes, I find drawing out my prayers is a constructive way of overcoming distractions. As I draw words or images, my mind and heart becomes laser focused

Praying Scripture There are times when I don’t know what to pray. Praying through a verse or passage of Scripture has been a great way to keep my mind focused, while praying something substantial for others or myself. For example, I’ll pray through Psalm 23. “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want…”

There is so much prayer potential packed in this one verse.

“God, I recognize that you are Lord, not me. You are the shepherd. You take care of me. Regardless of my situation, You see all and have my best interest in mind. You are watching over me, caring for me, and protecting me. I may not see it, but I remind myself that ‘the Lord IS my shepherd.’

Not ‘were’ or ‘will be’ my shepherd, but you ‘are’ right now – presently….” And so forth.

JERRELL& CHARISSA JOBE Jerrel is a teaching pastor at Palm Valley Church in Mission. He is married to Charissa and has three children : Micah (10), Naylah (7),and Avi (5).

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on that which I’m praying. As the image grows, so does my prayer. These images are often simple, definitely not anything that will get submitted to the local art museum. Interestingly, during these times, twenty minutes of praying can seem like five. (If you’re interested in learning more about this type of prayer, Sybil MacBeth offers some great introductory ideas in her book Praying in Color).

Movements, Gestures & Sign Language There are times when words just seem to be lacking something. It’s during these times that I find myself communicating to God and praying in sign language or some form of gesture.

Now, I’ll admit, being fluent in American Sign Language helps, but it’s not necessary.

Throughout Scripture, physical actions and gestures carry meaning. People bowed in the presence of a king to show honor and represent submission. Many early believers would fold their hands during prayer. This was a physical statement that they would not hold onto anything else when they were praying. It was a physical way to say to God, “Your kingdom come, your will be done in my life.” Open hands demonstrated openness, receptivity, teach-ability and surrender. You can say, “God, I’m Your’s. I surrender to Your will.” But, you could also get down on your knees, bow your head, open your hands and hold them up before God. Movement, actions and such gestures often have a way of connecting deeper with our heart and emotions. The meaning of what’s being conveyed, at times, can seem to be more tangible and significant. (If you don’t know sign language, but would like to explore ways of integrating movement and body posture in prayer, you may find the book BodyPrayer: The Posture of Intimacy with God helpful.)

Tactile Prayers Simply, having something in your hand can be a great way to avert distractions in prayer. The last couple of weeks, I’ve been carrying around a little wooden cross. There’s nothing magical or mystical about this cross. It wasn’t blessed by a pope or kissed by John the Baptist. In fact, it was probably made in China. However, it is an object that can help to direct my prayers. I’ll take it in my hand, and simply begin giving thanks for the ways in which God has been at work in my life based on what Christ did on the cross. As it reminds me of my sin, there are prayers of confession and repentance. As an instrument of death, it provokes prayers of surrender and self-denial.

I have a metal tin with clay inside. On the surface, it looks like I’m playing with playdough, but in reality, I’m offering prayers asking God to mold me and shape me any way He desires.

This clay speaks of the on-going transformation that God desires in the life of each of His disciples.

At times, I’ve been sitting at my desk, when I get an email asking for prayer from someone whose marriage is struggling.

One of my first responses has been to reach and grab a paperclip and begin praying that God will bring them back together – to hold them together. It may seem elementary, but I see what I’m praying. At that moment, I’m deeply connected with what I’m asking God to do and my mind is not wandering.

All of these examples are simple, yet each of them in various ways has proven beneficial in my times of prayer. They’ve helped me to connect with God on a deeper level and with fewer mental distractions.

Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.

-James 4:8 / 23 /www.valleychristianmagazine.com /

Shall We Dance?

By Theresa Valladares, M.D.

I love to dance and sing. Anyone who knows me knows that I will bust out my uncoordinated dance moves if I hear a great song. My kids say I embarrass them when I dance and they’ve banned me from their school dances.

My singing apparently isn’t much better. I download lyrics of songs so I can belt them out correctly in the car. My boys don’t like to ride in the car with me. I have heard them say many times “your singing is hurting my ears”.

I’m not formally trained but what I lack in skills I make up with enthusiasm. I was fortunate enough to be part of the dance team in high school and in college. One of my dreams was to be on Broadway with my name in lights singing and dancing on stage. Of course you need talent to make that a reality and well let’s just say my “talents” were not in the same league.

What is it about dancing that brings me so much peace and joy? It starts with a song and one enjoys the beat or melody and our natural instinct is to sway with the music. There are the slow songs which are usually shared with one’s beloved and then you have the more energetic songs like “La Macarena” or the “Chicken Dance” that make you laugh and can be done in a group.

The music stops and we want to hear the next song if we’re at a dance.

Will it peak our interest? Do I know the steps? Will I be asked to dance?

At different times in my life I can remember a song or a dance that was associated with it. How many of us didn’t cry and listen to sad songs when we got our hearts broken?

Anyone else listen to their Air Supply records after a breakup?....”I’m all out love I’m so lost without you…”

Anyone?

At my wedding we played “Unforgettable” and that song still takes me back to our first dance as a married couple. I remember the promises we made and how young and naïve we were about marriage. It makes me smile.

How many of us haven’t been to our kids Mother’s Day programs where we watch them all move to the beat of their music while singing “you are my sunshine my only sunshine”. It didn’t matter how many times the kids had rehearsed they all danced to their own beat. Good memories when I hear that song.

When I run I play songs that lift me up and make me want to go faster.

During long runs I will do arm motions and sing out loud. Yes I have received many annoyed looks as I run down 2nd Street or at a race. I will even choreograph dances while running for my one woman show! (I haven’t given up on that dream) Dancing to me is very similar to life.

We have these slow periods where we need to be still and listen to Gods voice. The busyness of life can seem like a really fast song where by the end you are winded and wanting to sit out the next song. How many times have you wanted to stop the music because you couldn’t keep up? How many times have you wanted to collapse after an exhausting day?

I believe that we are in a never-ending dance made up of both slow sentimental songs and faster energetic songs. These songs and dances can represent the ups and downs of life.

Ecclesiastes 3:4 A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to DANCE! One of my favorite songs is called “Dance with Me” by Jesus Culture.

It’s a beautiful ballad based on Song of Solomon. I first heard this song during worship at TFC. It immediately made an impression with me because it made me want to dance and cry all at once. It’s beautifully written and yet the words are simple.

This song I can play in my office, my car or at home and it immediately brings a peace to me that I can’t explain and I will raise my hands and sway to it. It’s the only slow song that I can dance alone yet feel like I’m not.

This song is about Gods love for us

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which describes Him as a lover of our souls and he is asking us to dance“Dance with me”. He calls us his “beloved” and reminds us that “You’ve captured my heart”. To me this song represents my never ending dance with God. When I listen to the lyrics-“winter has passed and the springtime has come, wont you dance with me, Oh lover of my soul” – God is inviting me to dance in good times and in bad.

That is why I have this love of dance!

Jeremiah 31:13 Then the young women will dance and be glad, young men and old as well. I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.

So when I’m stressed or feeling overwhelmed and it feels like a really fast two-step country song God is there helping me make those awkward turns and keeps me from falling down.

When I’m happy and successful I might feel like busting out the “typewriter” moves and singing with the MC Hammer song-“Can’t touch this” I know that God is clapping along and probably laughing!

When I’m feeling lonely there is nothing like fellowship with a group of others and that reminds me of songs like the “Harlem shake”. Everyone dances to own beat and there is a lot of encouraging words and laughter. God provided that too.

Singing and dancing for me can express joy, relieve sadness and instill peace. It helps me remember that each song or event in my life is mastered by God and that ultimately it can be a form of praise. It doesn’t matter that I sing off-key or dance like no one else is watching. What matters is that I don’t stop and I accept his invitation.

So I ask you what God asks me….

Shall we dance?

Theresa Valladares She is married to Enrique Lopez and has two wonderful sons, Cord and Diego. They are members of The Family Church and she practices family medicine in Pharr.

La Petite

Learning Academy

Reginsotw eforr Summer Camps!!

It is the philosophy of La Petite Learning Academy that early childhood should be a time of fun, warmth, security, education, exploration and discovery. La Petite Learning Academy provides an atmosphere that encourages social, emotional, physical and intellectual growth through the children’s play and through small group instruction. Our curriculum includes creative art, foreign language, math, music appreciation, hands on science activities, block play, sign language, dramatic play, sensorial and cultural activities. We have daily outdoor time which includes, kids stretching classes, gardening & introduction to physical education. We also have a weekly baking lesson every Friday.

We are a Christian based center and incorporate our bible studies weekly into our curriculum. It is our mission to provide a Christcentered environment. Children are exposed daily to shapes, colors, numbers, and letters through developmentally appropriate activities.

We focus on early literacy and reading readiness as early as 6 weeks old. We have highly qualified staff and our director has over 15 years in early childcare experience. We are McAllen’s newest addition in the childcare industry and are happy to serve children from ages 6 weeks-5 years old.

We are now enrolling!

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“For by grace are ye saved through faith…” Ephesians 2:8-9 / 26 /www.valleychristianmagazine.com /

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Life is Not Posed.

COACHES CAMP

Horseshoe Bay Marriott Resort - Horseshoe Bay, Texas

Thursday—Sunday, July 11th to 14th

Come and enjoy the fellowship of other members of the coaching profession as you learn key principles of successful living as a “Coach” in an environment that is fun and understands coaches.

LEADERSHIP CAMP

Hardin-Simmons University - Abilene, TX

June 10th to June 14th

DFW FCA Sports Leadership Camp Dallas Baptist University – Dallas, TX – www.dfwfca.org

June 24th to June 28th

SPORTS CAMPS

FCA Golf Camp – HSU, Abilene, TX

June 10th to June 14th

Texas Tech University - Lubbock, TX

June 21st to June 25th

Texas A&M University - College Station, TX

July 1st to July 5th (Subject to change)

COLLEGE EXTREME

River Bend Camp – Glen Rose, TX January 25th to 27th Camp scholarships are available through local FCA Offices.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THESE CAMPS GO TO:

A Note from Nathan…

Hey Everyone, we are very excited about this years banquet FCA. It is going to be a great time of food, fellowship, and FUNdraising. Your financial support makes an eternal impact on the lives of the kids in our community by helping to buy them Bibles & send them to FCA Camp. Several of our students from across the Valley will be at this year’s banquet with silent auction items, and 100% of the funds raised though the auction will go towards sending students to the FCA Weekend of Champions Camp on April 26-28. Come be a part of this years Banquet. You’ll be glad you did. I’ll see you there. I might even outbid you. I tend to be rather competitive.

Blessings,

Please buy a sign and scholarship for a kid to go to camp. It’s that easy! You’ll be glad you gave!

Nathan Jones

Multi-Area Director Fellowship of Christian Athletes njones@fca.org

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Nathan Jones

FCA Camp Scholarship Campaign

FCA Camps are a time of “Inspiration and Perspiration” for athletes who want to reach their potential through comprehensive athletic and spiritual training.

Since 1954, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes has challenged athletes and coaches to impact the world for Jesus Christ. FCA is cultivating Christian principles in local communities nationwide by encouraging, equipping and empowering others to serve as examples and to make a difference in their family, school, and community. Reaching over two million people annually on he college, high school, junior high and youth levels, FCA has grown in to the largest inter-denomination sports ministry in the world. Through this shared passion for athletes and faith, lives are being changed for current and future generations.

F CA C a “I’m athletically faster in my m p h as b e e n th m y li fe ! e g re a t sport and spiritually stronger Anyone est exp w h o h as n e is missin r i ence of with God.” ot go g out on o n e g re a n e t o F CA C a m p t exper i e n c e !” e ferenc f i d a e 00. n mnak a r $5 c o h f U O ig n, eac mpaig n their How Y Buy a S hip ca o

“It was intense.”

If you would like to sponsor an Athlete to Summer Camp

e) lars ed at p scho ny nam ur came (or compah will be plac a. o in g re n whic icipatin your a eir nam By partr will have th ble sided sigt the year in u u o o o d h amp Don throug ” x 18” FCA C ’s te le own 24 events held Ath FCA ts one presenolarship. e r ld o Sch sign s Every

call Robin at 956-994-1121 today!

FCA Vision To see the world impacted for Jesus Christ through the influence of athletes and coaches.

FCA Mission To present to athletes and coaches and all whom they influence the challenge and adventure of receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, serving Him in their relation-ships and in the fellowship of the church.

FCA Core Values Our relationships will demonstrate steadfast commitment to Jesus Christ and His Word through Integrity, Service, Teamwork and Excellence. / 31 /www.valleychristianmagazine.com

/

Messy Church

Shopping! What fun? Everybody likes to shop. Any chance you partook in the Black Friday escapade? Whether it is for clothes or technological gadgets, shopping can be fun, and in some cases necessary.

What about church shopping?

This seems to be a common trend with so many churches to choose from with so many different preachers and music styles. It is as easy as choosing between Coke and Pepsi. Or maybe it is not that simple?

“What is the best church or the best kind of church for my family?” This is a question I often ask myself. Ross Parsley responds to this question in his book, Messy Church. Ross Parsley is the founder and pastor of ONEchapel in Austin, Texas. His previous experience at New Life Church in Colorado also qualifies him to address the issue.

Parsley’s answer is simple, but the reality may not be the most comfortable or convenient. The church is a family; therefore a local church should be a family.

A family is a multicolored spectrum in which each color contributes to the overall beauty. Just consider your recent Christmas gatherings; multi-generations and personalities. Sometimes these family facets include blended families and dysfunctional elements that add brilliant and sometimes clashing colors to the already complex spectrum.

Book Review by

Chasing Francis Ian Morgan Cron Zondervan

Ross Parsley

Family can resemble a used painter’s palette; it can be a bit messy. Family can also be like a splatter painting, a beautiful mess.

Basically a local church should be a vibrant and active blend of generations and cultures living out the love of God. The messiness of life means that church life can also be a bit messy. But in the hands of the Almighty God, it can be a beautiful mess.

The most insightful, refreshing, and helpful part of the book is Parsley’s discussion about benefitting from the older and younger generations. Give the younger generation the opportunity to learn as they lead in the church. Sometimes the young people are set aside to do their own thing. Later, they will find it difficult to fit in to church life as a whole. A few churches are stuck in a time that is no longer relevant to the younger people or new converts.

It is natural to grow old, so maybe the church needs to grow young. That does not necessarily mean compromising the truth of God. It does mean giving some change a chance.

For the younger generation, it does not mean that some tradition is not good. Heritage needs to be embraced and the young need to take the time to listen and appreciate the past.

The point is that people of all ages and backgrounds need to be embraced and radically loved and welcomed into the Messy Church.

Miguel Paredes Is a teacher at Edinburg North and earned his Masters in Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary.

He is married to Brenda and has four children: Diego (10), Karla and Andrea (7), and Charis (3).

Confessions of a Raging Perfectionist

What happens when the pastor of a mega Amanda Jenkins church loses his faith? Pastor Chase Falson Tyndale Publishing has lost his faith in God, the Bible, evangelical Amanda is a raging perfectionist.

Christianity, and his super-sized megachurch. When he falls apart, She begins each day with a long list. the church elders tell him to go away: as far away as possible. Join “Keep the house picked up; limit myself Chase on his life-changing journey to Italy where, with a curious to two Diet Cokes; spend special time group of Franciscan friars, he struggles to resolve his crisis of with each of the kids; work out; pray; avoid sugar; read a faith by retracing the footsteps of Francis of Assisi, a saint whose chapter in a book about something very important; read my simple way of loving Jesus changed the history of the world. Read Bible; call my mom.” She determines each day’s worth, and this riveting story and then begin your own life-changing journey ultimately her own, by keeping track of her stats—pounds through the pilgrim’s guide included in this powerful novel. gained or lost, stuff accomplished.

Hidden in the past lies the future of the church When his That is, until God spoke into her life, waking her up to elders tell him to take some time away from his church, broken the true costs of her addiction to perfection. Confessions of pastor Chase Falson crosses the Atlantic to Italy to visit his uncle, a Raging Perfectionist is more than Amanda’s confession; it’s a Franciscan priest. There he is introduced to the revolutionary a journey of letting go of the subtle but destructive idols teachings of Saint Francis of Assisi and finds an old, but new way of her overactive inner voice and replacing them with God’s of following Jesus that heals and inspires. Chase Falson’s spiritual truth. Amanda hopes her journey can inspire others to let discontent mirrors the feelings of a growing number of Christians God dig in to their own lives, uncovering the subtle lies we who walk out of church asking, Is this all there is? They are weary unconsciously live by. of celebrity pastors, empty calorie teaching, and worship services where the emphasis is more on Lights, Camera, Action than on Father, Son, and Holy Spirit while the deepest questions of life remain unaddressed in a meaningful way. / 32 /www.valleychristianmagazine.com /

!

!

Dates:' Weekly'Camps' June'3'–'7' June'10'–'13' Monday'–'Thursday' June'17'–'20' 9'A.M.'–'12'P.M.' June'24'–'27' Ages'6'–'16' July'8'–'11' Early'Drop'&'' July'15'–'18' Late'Pick'Up'Available' July'22'–'25' ' July'29'–'August'1' ! !

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June 8 IOP - Island of Praise with Josh Wilson South Padre Island Schlitterbahn Waterpark

June 17 Building 429

August 17th Lincoln Brewster

The Family Church-McAllen

Pharr Events Center

August 8-9 Global Leadership Summit

Palm Valley Church

1st Graders at Agape Christian School in Mission have been busy bees!

Mrs. Olmos 1st grade class published their class book, Jars of Clay. Illustration by Javier Perez.

1st grade students at the National Butterfly Center with Jeff Glassberg, founder of the Butterfly Center.

Mrs. Olmos 1st grade students created their own book and had it published students worked very hard on this, Jars of Clay is based on words that describe who we are and how we are suppose to be in God’s eyes. The book teaches children to believe, honor and love God in all the ways they can.

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/ 35 /www.valleychristianmagazine.com /

With the release of 2011’s Listen to the Sound, Building 429 solidified its place as one of Christian music’s bestloved and most influential bands. The hit single “Where I Belong” became an anthem for today’s believers and was Billboard Magazine’s No. 1 Christian song of 2012.

The song set an impressive record as it became the first song to remain at No. 1 for 15 weeks, an unprecedented feat. Pushing forward with a renewed passion and sense of purpose, Building 429 now unleashes We Won’t Be Shaken.

Building 429 sound and they are in abundance on We Won’t Be Shaken. The title track is a battle cry for the church in these troubled times and the album is filled with songs that inspire believers to dream God-sized dreams and walk the Christian walk to the fullest extent.

“We are as committed as we’ve ever been to the body of Christ and to the church,” states Roy. “And for us, we don’t think that means we have to be less cool or less fun or less energetic. In fact we feel like we can be everything we want to be and speak directly to the church while at the same time having music that speaks to people who are nonbelievers. As we headline shows this year, we want to make sure the gospel is clear and we want to love on people. We want our album to convey that.”

‘Hey, let’s go! Let’s do this. God is going to use us and we’re not going to fail.”

“When asked what we were trying to achieve with this record, we thought back to a plaque on our manager’s desk, ‘What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?’

We felt like that was the perfect mantra of this record,” frontman Jason Roy states. With bold declarations and its driven inspiration, the band has never had a more effervescent message to offer to listeners than it has now. “We know who we are better than ever before,” drummer Michael Anderson says, “who we are as men, who we are as husbands, who we are as Christ followers and that just pours into the music.”

In intentional efforts to serve its fans, Building 429 offers a fresh approach, yet delivers the absolute substance listeners want with the new project. “We feel like we’ve made the most focused record of our career,” Roy says. “We knew what we were trying to accomplish. We wanted to push the limits of what people expect us to do while maintaining the absolute laser focus on meeting our current fans where they are.”

Passionate vocals, skilled musicianship and insightful songwriting have become the cornerstones of the

1. Mercy Me

2. Chris Tomlin

3. The Afters

You Are I Am Whom Shall I Fear Every Good Thing CD: The Hurt and (God of Angel Armies) CD: Life is the Healer CD: Burning Lights Beautiful

We Won’t Be Shaken is a bold statement of faith by Jason Roy and his band mates Jesse Garcia (guitar), Aaron Branch (bass) and Michael Anderson (drums).

The title track reverberates with passion and conviction as it encourages believers to stand strong in their faith.

“Get Up” is a vibrant up tempo that encourages action and reminds believers to remember what they were made for. “Set a Fire” is a slow burning ballad that asks the Lord to rekindle that spark within. “Wrecking Ball (Press On)” stands out as a reflective mid-tempo declaration to trust God, no matter the ups and downs of life. “Bonfire” is an incendiary rock anthem anchored

by Roy’s distinctive vocals and Anderson’s pounding drums.

Branch cites “Blameless” as his favorite song on the new album. “Everyone knows who they were before they were saved, but the Bible says we are now in

4. Matthew West Hello, My Name Is CD: Into the Light

5. Sidewalk Prophets

Help Me Find It CD: Live Like That

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6. Tobymac Steal My Show CD: Eye On It

7. Hawk Nelson Words CD: Made

Christ through God. In God’s eyes, we’re blameless,” Branch says. “His blood has washed us clean and we’re righteous through Him. The lyric says ‘You have made me blameless, sin has been made nameless, it doesn’t matter who I was before.’ It’s a powerful lyric to me, and then the sound of the song is very epic and it just adds to the lyric. It makes you feel like: ‘I am blameless!’ I love that song.”

In recording We Won’t Be Shaken, Building 429 worked again with producers Jason Ingram and Rob Hawkins.

“We’ve always enjoyed working with Jason Ingram and Rob Hawkins. They are not only great producers and writers, but impressive musicians,” states Garcia. “They know about guitar sounds and tones. To be in a room with somebody who is producing, but also has that same mindset and to be able to have an open palette, the experience was just so great. I love working with them.”

Unlike some bands that record separately, Building 429’s members were all in the studio together and that camaraderie can be heard in the tracks. “It’s funny when people walk into the studio and we’re tracking,” adds Roy. “They are shocked that we’re all four tracking and that we’re all talking to each other.”

The members of Building 429 are united in their desire to be bold about sharing its faith and want to encourage others to do so without fear or hesitation. The group has learned from experience that when God calls you, he equips you and you can do great things for the kingdom.

“We’re confident in saying that we’re believers,” Roy continues. “We’re confident in saying that there is a better life as a believer.”

Building 429 hopes the songs on We Won’t Be Shaken remind people they are more than conquerors in Christ.

“We don’t want to spend a lot of time talking about who we were before Christ because the old is gone and new has come,” says Roy. ‘We wanted to talk about how David is no longer shepherd boy. Now he’s King. We didn’t want to talk about Moses the stutterer. We wanted to talk about Moses the leader of the nation. We really felt like we wanted to make a record that said, ‘Stand up! You have been called. We are God’s children. Who can stand against what God has begun?’ That’s really our perspective. If you listen to the record you find that there’s a little bit of bravado in it, but it’s bravado from a standpoint of we don’t have to always talk about how weak we are because His strength is made perfect in our weakness. That’s what this record is about. This record says, ‘Hey, let’s go! Let’s do this. God is going to use us and we’re not going to fail.”

8. Josh Wilson Carry Me CD: Carry Me

9. Brit Nicole Gold CD: Gold

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h e t e t a r C eleb 13 n e 2 0

h i S n o S

Primera, TX 4pm un til!

Saturday June 22nd

Featured Speaker & Performance by Pete Etterman 2012 AMG New Artist of the Year

MUSIC!!

FUN!!

FOOD!

!!

FREE ADMISSION

The Cowboy Up Band Esther Gonzalez Sandy Escamilla

Also featuring performances by special musical guests: Bring the whole family out for this FREE community-wide Christian Country, Southern Gospel, & Spanish Gospel music festival!!

Music & Message in English & Spanish!

Kid’s entertainment, including inflatables & face painting, & concessions will also be available!

Primera Community Center, Primera Park 16603 Community Dr. Primera, TX. 78552

This event sponsored by The General Conference of The Church Of God Of The Firstborn.

Today’s Necessities

Dear Dave, Can you please define “necessities” in today’s world while trying to get out of debt and live on a budget?

Matthew

As k

Dave

Dear Matthew, Whether you’re talking about the world today or 50 years ago, necessities haven’t changed. Necessities are still food, shelter, clothing, transportation and utilities.

We’re talking about needs versus wants. The problem is that many people were never taught that there’s a difference between the two—a big difference.

Most people have enough food to eat and a decent place to live.

Those are necessities. I’m not talking about eating out or having a big, fancy house. Those are wants. Most people also have enough clothes in the closet and a way to get around town. They may not have designer clothes or a fancy foreign sports car, but again, those are wants, not needs. Keeping the lights on and the house warm in winter and cool during the summer? Utilities are a need. But no one needs a $300 super-deluxe cable television package.

Now, there are some important wants. I want you to have life insurance to protect your family. I also want you to have a will and health insurance. I want you to have some other nice things, too, like a better car or a nicer house. There’s nothing wrong, at some point, with having a few toys or eating at a good restaurant once in a while. But again, these things are wants, not needs.

Believe it or not, very few Americans struggle with basic necessities.

Sure, there are hungry people and homeless people in America.

Those of us who have been financially blessed should want to help the less fortunate in ways that allow them to get back on their feet and start providing for themselves again. But most folks in this country have nothing to whine about. There’s nothing wrong with having a few wants, but you should define them correctly—and never, ever put them ahead of your needs!

—Dave

Ramsey

Too Much for Date Night

For more financial help please visit: www.daveramsey.com Dave Ramsey is a personal money-management expert and extremely popular national radio personality. His three New York Times best-selling books—Financial Peace, More Than Enough and The Total Money Makeover—have sold more than 6 million copies combined. His latest book,

EntreLeadership: 20 Years of Practical Business Wisdom from the wTrenches, released in September 2011.

Dear Dave, My husband and I have a baby and are trying to live on a budget and pay off about $14,000 in debt. He wants to spend $100 a month for a date night, but I think this is too much under the circumstances. I’m a stay-at-home mom right now, and after taxes he makes about $3,200 a month. What do you think?

Ashley Dear Ashley, You win on this one. If you’d told me you guys make $150,000 a year, then I’d say he was being completely reasonable. But with your income and a lot of debt to boot, it sounds like he’s just looking for an outlet to spend some money. The good thing is you’re working together and beginning to take this personal finance thing seriously.

You’re just a little bit apart on the particulars in this area.

I think you back this amount down to $40 or $50 for now. That’s plenty for a reasonable dinner and perhaps a baby sitter for a couple of hours. If you have family or friends nearby, you might not have to figure baby-sitting expenses into the equation at all.

Keep in mind, too, that going out on a date doesn’t have to mean spending money. Years ago, when my wife and I were broke, we did tons of stuff that didn’t cost a dime. Picnics in the park or a pretty hike through the woods are great ways to spend time together while keeping the pocketbook in your pocket.

Be creative and make sure you find ways to have “us” time on a regular basis.

But you’re right on this one, Ashley. You can go out and have plenty of fun together without spending a lot of money!

—Dave / 38 /www.valleychristianmagazine.com /

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Raul “Rudy” Rodriguez

attorney at law

Some historians may argue that among the greatest restoration stories of mankind are the European Renaissance or perhaps the post-World War II era.

The cultural movement known as the European Renaissance roughly took place during the 14th through 17th centuries. This moment in history saw the face of Europe evolve with respect to its arts, architecture and long held science tenets. It also saw a rediscovery of the Greco-Roman classical knowledge and a rebirth of the study of Latin and vernacular languages. It served as a bridge between the Middle Ages and the Modern Era.

Closer to home, America saw its restoration take place in the years that followed World War II. During this era, couples who could not afford families during the Great Depression made up for lost time.

The mood in America suddenly became optimistic. At that time, the unemployment rate of the Great Depression dropped dramatically and the economy improved substantially. The G.I. Bill empowered many honorable service members to finish high school and attend college. As their skills were improved, so was the financial well-being of their families.

But, without a doubt the greatest restoration that can take place is when a person does as Romans 10:9 instructs us to do. Romans 10:9 says: “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” The message is simple: invite Christ into your heart and make him your personal Lord and Savior. At that time, your restoration will be complete.

Next He will do as Philippians 1:6 says, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” As you seek and strive to honor God with your life, He will reward you by allowing you to take on His characteristics. Hosea 14:4 says, “I will bring my people back to me. I will love them with all my heart; No longer am I angry with them.” I pray that you will invite Christ into your heart and allow Him to restore you!

At my office, I also want to be part of your restoration plan, albeit in a different way. I pray that God will use me for His honor and glory in helping me address your needs. If you have been involved in an auto accident and/or other serious injury or if you have lost a loved one as a result of someone’s negligence, I will do my best to restore some sense of normality to your life. I will also help you in matters involving family law, criminal law and real estate and will issues. As always, I bear in mind that in honoring God with the way I handle my business relationships I will be honoring you my esteemed client.

Raul “Rudy” Rodriguez

www.raulrudyrodriguezlaw.com Phone: 956.380.1421 / Toll Free: 877.480.1421 www.raulrudyrodriguezlaw.com Fax: 956.380.2920 / Mobile: 956.655.5455

Phone: 956.380.1421 / Toll Free: / Fax: 956.380.2920 / Mobile: 956.655.5455 511 W. University / Edinburg, TX877.480.1421 78539 e-mail: anointed511@gmail.com rrodlaw@hotmail.com 511 W. University / Edinburg, TX 78539 / e-mail: / 40 /www.valleychristianmagazine. com /